Thomas B. Whatley.
Patrolman Thomas Whatley succumbed to gunshot wounds received the previous evening while he and the Graham County Sheriff attempted to serve a restraining order at a home near Robbinsville. As the officers stepped onto the front porch the suspect opened fire with a rifle, striking Patrolman Whatley in the abdomen. Patrolman Whatley was taken to District Hospital in Andrews, North Carolina, where he succumbed to his wound. The killer was apprehended a short time later and convicted of Patrolman Whatley's murder. He was released after serving 17 years. Patrolman Whatley was a WWII veteran and had served with the North Carolina Highway Patrol for four months.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Patrolman Whatley served with the North Carolina Highway Patrol.
Thank you for your service to the people of North Carolina, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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